‘The Texture Of Falling’ Is The Beautifully Confusing Film You Need To See

With a unique style of story-telling, The Texture of Falling is a one of a kind experience that definitely qualifies as a must-watch.

I find myself in awe, both confused and delighted by the chaotic journey that The Texture of Falling takes us, the audience, on. Never have I been so captivated. And I don’t say that lightly.

The lives of a filmmaker, pianist, painter, and architect collide and intertwine in a multilayered tale of love, art, violence, and power dynamics that ultimately questions, what is real?

I can attest to the truth of that log line. With every twist and turn (and trust me, this film has plenty), you’ll find yourself literally asking aloud, “what the hell is going on?” And though you can’t help but grow increasingly frustrated, questioning why you can’t solve the puzzles within this film, there won’t be a moment when you don’t feel thrilled. This is 90 minutes well spent. And it’s truly an experience like no other.

The film features four main characters. In one arc, we follow Louisa and Luke. She faces a breaking point in her professional life, he in his personal. Their doubts about themselves both rise and fall as they grow closer, becoming increasingly more and more invested in the relationship than either of them expected. In the other arc, we follow Michael and Sylvia. They embark on a passionate journey of pleasure and pain in a dom/sub relationship, something neither of them has tried before. Or so they say.

I’m trying to summon an adjective or phrase that could sum up the brilliance of what The Texture of Falling really is. But I’m at a loss. This film, above all else, is unapologetically bold. But it’s so much more than that. This film heavily revolves around sexuality, specifically focusing on BDSM. But this isn’t Fifty Shades of Grey. It’s real. I think that’s what’s most shocking and most relieving about this film – its base in reality is solid. Even though we’re watching actors, it feels like we’re watching real people. There are awkward moments, imperfections, and nothing is what it seems.

The film is produced, directed, and written by one of the lead actresses of the film, Maria Allred. She’s also the cinematographer. And the editor! The fact that this is her first feature film is astounding to me – and it’s a true testament to her talent. Her style reminds me of one of my favourites, Christopher Nolan, who also relishes in nontraditional story telling. He is a master at weaving intricate and confusing tales, as Allred seems to be as well. And this is something very important to her. As she said in a Q&A:

“For me, style and inventiveness of craft are just as important, if not more important, than story itself. I know I am an outlier in this position; story has always reigned supreme. But I long for films that are not just presenting a heartstring-pulling story, but rather, an innovative take on the craft and telling of the story. These are the films that stand out as works of art for me. The Texture of Falling utilizes a nonconventional structure that is more riddle than linear story, and heavily employs poetic symbolism.”

To say that this woman is incredible is an understatement. To say that she is talented is an understatement. What she has created is, simply put, one of a kind. Not only that, but it’s poignant to our time. And what Allred sought to create is something uniquely feminist.

“I am the most powerful figure in the making of The Texture of Falling as the producer,main investor, writer, director, DP, editor, etc. I am also the most subjugated characterwithin the film, playing Sylvia, the sub in an S&M relationship. Through practical andthematic means, I am breaking down the hierarchy intrinsic in the filmmaking processand industry. Simultaneously, I’m asserting my own sexuality outright as a femaledirector, before my sexuality can be owned, used against me, or stripped from me byothers in this “old boy” industry.”

This woman is my new idol.

This is a must-watch. It’s unlike any other film and will leave you confused, curious, and yet content. It leaves you questioning your own reality, your own beliefs, and yet leaves you with something almost euphoric. The Texture of Falling is an experience, one that you’ll never forget. And definitely look out for more of Allred’s work. If this film is any indication, she’s about to take Hollywood by storm. And I, for one, can’t wait.

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Published by Maggie Stancu

Maggie Stancu is a Canadian film critic and recap guru who is obsessed with too many shows and films to count. She is the founder, editor-in-chief, and sole contributor to media news site Fiction's Mistress. Maggie previously contributed to pop culture sites such as ScreenPrism and Movie Pilot, and continues to contribute to Vocal Media. She's also still waiting for her Hogwarts letter, which should arrive any day now...
View all posts by Maggie Stancu